Transplanting is the process of moving a seedling or young plant from its initial propagation medium into the main growing system. In hydroponics, this typically means transferring a germinated seedling in a rockwool cube or rapid rooter plug into a net pot filled with clay pebbles, coco coir, or another supporting medium. Transplanting exposes roots to the nutrient solution for the first time and marks the beginning of the main vegetative growth stage.
Key Facts
- Transplant when the first true leaves appear and roots are visible at the base of the propagation plug
- Handle seedlings by the plug or media, never by the stem β stem damage causes permanent setback
- Ensure the propagation plug sits at the correct depth so roots reach the nutrient solution
- Transplant shock: temporary wilting and slow growth after moving β usually resolves in 24β48 hours
- Reduce nutrient concentration to 50% for the first week post-transplant
- Hydroponic transplants are faster than soil: roots find water immediately rather than searching